Li Chunfeng, the Chinese mathematician, astrologer and cosmologist, wearing traditional costume, holding the 'Eight Trigrams' symbol incorporating the 'Yin-yang' symbol. Watercolour, China, 18--.

Li Chunfeng (602-670) was a mathematician, astrologer and cosmologist of the Tang dynasty

The 'Eight Trigrams' symbol represents stages in the continuous process of change, and also the connections between the past, present and future. The 'Yin-yang' symbol represents the perfect balance between the interaction of opposites in the universe, and is central to the principles of Chinese medicine and to life

1800-1899

1 painting : watercolour ; sheet 26.7 x 22.2 cm

Lettering includes artist's (?) stamp Inscription in Chinese script gives Li Chunfeng's name

Wellcome Collection 567571i

Exhibited in "Asia: body, mind, spirit: Asian treasures from the Wellcome Library presented by Asia House and the Wellcome Trust" at The Brunei Gallery, School of Oriental and African Studies, London, 13 October-12 December 2004